James Rowbottom has been voted as the most underrated player by his Sydney Swans teammates, with the midfielder earning the ultimate praise ahead of the 2024 AFL season.

Earning a reputation for his relentless tackle pressure and fearless ball-winning ability, Rowbottom has arguably been one of the club's most consistent performers in the last two seasons.

The 23-year-old has recorded back-to-back third place finishes in the Bob Skilton Medal in 2022 and 2023 respectively, and holds the record for most tackles made by a Swans player in a season (171).

Since he was drafted by Sydney at pick no.25 of the 2018 National Draft, Rowbottom has accrued 93 appearances, including 48 in the last two seasons, and been a mainstay amongst a midfield contingent that has boasted the likes of Luke Parker, Josh Kennedy and Callum Mills in recent years. 

He finished the 2023 campaign with 17.9 disposals, 7.3 tackles and 4.7 clearances per game, while also recording a career-best performance that saw him produce 27 disposals and 13 tackles against the West Coast Eagles in Round 15.

He is set to feature prominently alongside new recruits Brodie Grundy and Taylor Adams in a new-look midfield this year.